Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings is the ultimate comfort food, making it perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. The combination of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings creates a wholesome dish that warms both the body and spirit. Plus, the slow cooker does most of the work for you, allowing you to savor the tantalizing aromas wafting through your home while you go about your day.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) / 4-5 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6-8 hours 20 minutes (low) / 4-5 hours 20 minutes (high)
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 450
- Protein: 32 grams
- Carbohydrates: 40 grams
- Fat: 18 grams
- Fiber: 5 grams
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 800 mg
Why Make This Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings
This Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings is an easy-to-make meal that’s loaded with flavor and nourishment. The slow cooking process allows the beef to become exquisitely tender and lets the flavors of the ingredients meld together beautifully. It’s also versatile, making it an excellent dish for any occasion—be it a cozy family dinner or a potluck with friends. Not to mention, the addition of homemade or store-bought biscuit dumplings adds a delightful texture, soaking up the stew’s rich broth.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings
Step 1: Preparation
In a slow cooker, add 2 pounds of beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes, along with 4 chopped carrots, 3 diced potatoes, 1 chopped onion, and 3 minced garlic cloves. These vegetables not only elevate the stew’s flavor profile but also provide essential nutrients.
Step 2: Mixing
Pour in 4 cups of beef broth, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 2 teaspoons of dried thyme. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly mixed, so every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 3: Cooking
Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. The longer cooking time on low will result in even more tender beef. You know the stew is ready when the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are soft.
Step 4: Finishing
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in 1 cup of frozen peas. The sweet burst of peas wonderfully complements the savory flavors of the stew. Next, drop spoonfuls of 1 cup of biscuit dough on top of the stew. Cover the slow cooker again and cook for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the dumplings to steam to fluffy perfection. Finally, serve hot and enjoy every spoonful!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings
This stew is a hearty dish on its own, but you can amp it up by serving it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or rosemary can also enhance the presentation and flavor. Enjoy it during a family dinner or as a warm meal for a gathering with friends.
How to Store Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you prefer, you can freeze the stew for up to 3 months for a quick meal later. Just be aware that the texture of the dumplings may change after freezing and reheating. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings
- Beef Choice: Opt for grass-fed beef chuck for a richer flavor, or use a different cut like brisket if available.
- Veggies: Feel free to get creative with vegetables; add green beans, corn, or even mushrooms for variation.
- Thickening: If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it in 30 minutes before serving.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried; just remember to add them towards the end of cooking for maximum flavor.
- Savory Options: For an extra layer of richness, consider adding a splash of red wine to the broth at the beginning.
Delicious Variations
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano to give the stew a unique twist.
- Spicy Option: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Healthier Twist: Substitute half of the potatoes with cauliflower for a lower-carb option.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other types of meat? Absolutely! You can substitute beef with chicken or pork; just adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, this dish is great for meal prep. You can assemble everything in advance and store it in the fridge. Just plug in your slow cooker when you’re ready to cook.
- What should I do if I forgot to thaw my meat? You can cook frozen meat in the slow cooker, but it will take longer to reach the proper temperature. Be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Is there a gluten-free option for dumplings? Yes, you can use gluten-free biscuit dough from your favorite brand or make homemade gluten-free dumplings using almond flour and coconut flour.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can double the recipe, but ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients. You may need to extend the cooking time slightly.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings is a beloved dish that is sure to please everyone around the table. With its combination of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings, it has all the elements of a comforting meal. Plus, its ease of preparation makes it a wonderful option for busy weeknights or any time you crave a warm, hearty dish. So why not give this delightful recipe a try? You’ll be rewarded with a flavorful and satisfying bowl of comfort that will leave your family asking for more!
Print
Slow Cooker Beef Stew and Dumplings
- Total Time: 380 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
The ultimate comfort food, this stew features tender beef, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 chopped carrots
- 3 diced potatoes
- 1 chopped onion
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup biscuit dough
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, add beef, carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic.
- Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Stir well.
- Cover and set the slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
- 30 minutes before serving, stir in peas and drop biscuit dough on top. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
